May 04, 2015

I've been building Tonal Plexus microtonal keyboards by hand for almost a decade now. I could never build these keyboards fast enough; I either had to ask people to wait, or just apologize and refuse orders. Occasionally, I was asked if I would consider selling the keyboard as a kit, or if I would just sell the circuit boards. Only once did I sell a special-order keyboard which consisted of mounted circuit boards, with no enclosure, for much cheaper than a finished keyboard.

Now that the new website is launched, it's time to start offering a Do It Yourself option. Click the hardware menu, and you'll now see two new entries: DIY and prototypes. Individual circuit boards are offered, some of which are available in quantity, others which are one of a kind. These are stock items that can ship immediately around the world.

Note that to assemble a keyboard, you'll also need cables and connectors. If for example you want to build a 4-octave U-PLEX, you'll need a U-PLEX control module and 4 TPX Octaves, and a 16 conductor ribbon cable with 5 connectors to assemble the unit. You'll also want to mount the boards using standoffs, etc. It seemed to me a bit complicated to try to handle cables and connectors as order items, so instead, when you place an order for PCBs, just also send an email explaining what you plan to do, and I'll make sure you understand what cables you need. In most cases I'll probably throw in the cables and connectors for free.

DIY users usually consult forums to discuss ideas and solve issues as they design and build their projects. Presently there is no user's forum on the website, but this may be added. For the time being, discussion can take place on the H-Pi Instruments facebook page. Happy building!

Cheers,
Aaron